Duale mourns veteran gynaecologist Dr Job Obwaka

Health Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale has expressed deep sorrow following the death of veteran gynaecologist Dr Job Obwaka at the age of 83.

Duale in a statement on behalf of the Ministry of Health, described Dr Obwaka as a distinguished medical professional whose lifelong dedication greatly advanced healthcare in the country.

“Dr Obwaka devoted his life to advancing medical practice in Kenya, leaving an invaluable contribution to the medical fraternity through his clinical excellence, leadership and mentorship of generations of practitioners,” Duale said.

Duale remembered the medic as a professional whose work significantly strengthened standards of care and improved outcomes in maternal and reproductive health services across the country.

"The late doctor, who served as a director at Nairobi Hospital, was widely respected for his role in strengthening standards of care, particularly in maternal and reproductive health services," he said.

Duale noted that Dr Obwaka’s work significantly improved health outcomes across the country, cementing his legacy as one of Kenya’s most influential medical practitioners.

The Health CS extended heartfelt condolences to Dr Obwaka’s family, colleagues and the wider medical community, saying the nation stands with them during this difficult time while honouring his distinguished service and commitment to humanity.

"We honour his distinguished service and commitment to humanity and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues and the wider medical community during this difficult time."

Dr Obwaka has died at the age of 83.

Dr Obwaka passed away on Friday evening at 7 pm at the same hospital where he served patients for years.

A source at the Hospital indicated that Dr Obwaka was rushed to the facility and was pronounced dead on arrival.

Widely respected in Kenya’s medical fraternity, Dr Obwaka dedicated much of his life to advancing women’s health and mentoring younger practitioners.

His long-standing association with Nairobi Hospital saw him play a key role in shaping clinical standards and patient care.

His death marks the end of an era for many colleagues and patients who benefited from his decades of service.

His death comes just six weeks after his dramatic arrest over a case related to management at the facility.